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Spicy Watermelon Salad with Cilantro and Lime Recipe

Spicy Watermelon Salad with Cilantro and Lime Recipe

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4.7 from 63 reviews

This Spicy Watermelon Salad with Cilantro and Lime is the ultimate refreshing summer side dish. Juicy watermelon gets a flavorful kick from jalapeño, zingy lime juice, and aromatic cilantro, all elevated by a light honey-lime dressing. It’s easy, vibrant, and a crowd-pleaser—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a light snack that’s bursting with sweet, spicy, and tangy notes.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1 mini watermelon, or 1/4 of a regular watermelon, cut into wedges or bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 jalapeño, thinly sliced or chopped (adjust to taste)

For the Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)

For Garnish

  • Flaky sea salt
  • Extra red chili flakes (optional)
  • Extra cilantro and jalapeño slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Watermelon: Cut the mini watermelon (or 1/4 of a large watermelon) into handheld-sized wedges or bite-sized cubes as desired. Place prepared watermelon on a large serving platter or in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, kosher salt, and chili flakes. Stir in the chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeño, mixing until well combined.
  3. Assemble the Salad (Platter Method): Arrange the watermelon wedges on a serving platter or on individual salad plates. Spoon the dressing evenly over the watermelon. Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and an extra pinch of chili flakes if desired.
  4. Assemble the Salad (Bowl Method): If using cubed watermelon, add it to a mixing bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the pieces evenly. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with extra cilantro, jalapeño slices, sea salt, and chili flakes if desired.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately while the watermelon is chilled and juicy. Enjoy the fresh, spicy, and tangy flavors!

Notes

  • To make this salad vegan, swap out honey for agave nectar or maple syrup.
  • If you prefer less heat, remove the jalapeño seeds before slicing, or use less pepper.
  • This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the watermelon releases juices if left to sit.
  • You can prep the dressing a few hours ahead and refrigerate separately until ready to serve.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salads
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
  • Calories: 110
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Sodium: 190mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/spicy-watermelon-salad-with-cilantro-and-lime-recipe/